Introduction
PostEurop members welcome the opportunity to provide input into the public consultation on the ERGP draft report outlining the future Regulatory Postal Framework. This topic is at the core of the activities of postal service providers organized within PostEurop, and members appreciate the opportunity to share their views on this important matter.
The ERGP draft report addresses key aspects of the future regulatory framework, which is expected to shape the postal sector for years to come. This is particularly significant given the challenges postal operators are already facing, even though certain trends are foreseeable. In that regard we strongly urge the ERGP in its further work on developing recommendations on the future regulatory framework, to take note of and consider implications of the Draghi report on EU competitiveness (9 September 2024)1 and the European Council conclusions on competitiveness (20 March 2025)2 in which the latter clearly calls for a reduction in administrative, regulatory and reporting burdens for businesses and public administrations.
PostEurop members are convinced that a universal postal service, if aligned with evolving user needs, service costs and market environment, will also in the future hold significant value for society, benefiting both individuals and businesses. In this context, we emphasize that ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of the Universal Service Obligation (USO) requires a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach. This approach must include several complementary measures that focus on enhancing both the sustainability and efficiency of the USO.
Based on these convictions, PostEurop would like to share its thoughts on the recommendations presented in this report.
Key Recommendations
The Universal Service as the heart of postal regulation PostEurop believes the basic scope of the regulatory framework on postal services should remain the Universal Service (US), which is intrinsic to social and economic cohesion. We agree with the ERGP’s view that a US is still necessary and recognize the importance of guaranteeing all EU citizens access to basic postal services (single piece). In this sense, principles such as reduction of the USO net cost and avoidance of unjustified burden for Universal Service Providers (USPs) vis a vis other operators should be taken into account.
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